Microsoft is working on 5.2? and 5.7? Lumia phones with iris scanners, 20MP PureView cameras

Over the last few weeks, rumors of Microsoft’s upcoming flagship Windows Phones have been circulating the internet. Obviously many of these rumors contain half-truths or are just plain false. The referenced phones are codenamed Cityman and Talkman, and it is time to set the record straight on their specifications and features.

The first accurate reporting of Cityman and Talkman go back to April 17 when Blog Jack published exact information about the two devices. Since then, I have been able to fill in the gaps and will complete most of the picture. To be clear, the information contained below is confirmed with multiple sources and I have the highest confidence in its accuracy. However, like all leaks, some of this should be treated with caution as plans can change. Specifications Below are the main hardware attributes of both phones with some added details.

Many have referred to these devices as the Lumia 940 and Lumia 940 XL, however, Microsoft is considering jumping a model number and calling them the Lumia 950 and Lumia 950 XL. I have been unable to confirm just yet if that this naming scheme is finalized, but considering Microsoft skipped Windows 9 to go to Windows 10, there is a precedent for such a move. It would also imply a greater break from the x40 lineup, which began a year ago. The name change will be decided by September. Accessories – Pen and Smart Cover The Lumia Cityman aka Lumia 940/950 XL will optionally have a Surface Pen and smart cover.

These will not be sold with the device but as extras. The Surface Pen looks exactly the same as the current silver Surface pen available for the Surface Pro 3. The smart cover is very reminiscent of the one that came with the ASUS ZenFone 2. It has a large circular see-through area for calls and notifications to be viewed and the pen can clip to it. The case comes in black, silver/white or brown. Iris scanner for Windows Hello Both phones will have an iris scanner to unlock the devices.

This hardware is part of the Windows Hello feature in Windows 10, and the experience should result in less than one second to unlock the device. However, we have heard, and I have said before that this feature may not work when the devices are first released. Instead, both phones will need a software update that may come a month or two after release.